Background: Sarcopenia is a multifactorial geriatric syndrome characterized by age-related loss of muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance. In recent years, neurotrophic and neuromuscular biomarkers have been investigated as potential diagnostic indicators of sarcopenia; however, evidence regarding their sex-specific differences remains limited. Aim: To evaluate the sex-specific associations of serum BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 levels with sarcopenia and muscle-related parameters among older adults. Materials and Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study included adults aged 60 years and older. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS 2019) criteria. Serum BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 levels were measured using ELISA. Group differences were analyzed using independent t-tests, correlations were assessed using Pearson correlation analysis, and diagnostic performance for sarcopenia was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was also performed. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in serum BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 levels between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic participants in either the male or female groups (all p>0.05). ROC analysis demonstrated AUC values ranging from 0.540 to 0.542 in males and from 0.508 to 0.530 in females for BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that age (OR=1.12, 95% CI: 1.04–1.21, p=0.003) and lower fat-free mass index (OR=0.78, 95% CI: 0.66–0.91, p=0.001) were significantly associated with sarcopenia, whereas BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 showed no independent association with sarcopenia. Conclusions 1. No statistically significant sex-specific differences were observed in serum BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 levels between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic older adults (all p>0.05). 2. CAF22 levels were weakly negatively correlated with muscle mass and fat-free mass index in males (p<0.05), whereas BDNF levels showed weak positive correlations with handgrip strength and fat-free mass index in females (p<0.05). CAF22 levels also demonstrated a weak positive correlation with age (p<0.05). 3. ROC and multivariable logistic regression analyses indicated limited diagnostic utility of BDNF, GDNF, and CAF22 for sarcopenia (AUC=0.508–0.542), and none of these biomarkers showed an independent association with sarcopenia (all p>0.05). In contrast, older age (OR=1.12, p=0.003) and lower fat-free mass index (OR=0.78, p=0.001) were significantly associated with sarcopenia.

Background: Globally, adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) remains a public health priority within the Sustainable Development Goals. In Mongolia, individuals aged 15-24 account for over 40% of all sexually transmitted infections (STIs), representing a significant national challenge. Current health education for adolescents focuses predominantly on biological knowledge while neglecting life skills, consent, and communication. This focus has led to a deepening “knowledge-practice gap,” increasing vulnerability to risky behaviors. Therefore, it is essential to identify the actual SRH needs of youth and evaluate the national curriculum against international Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) standards. Aim: To compare and evaluate the SRH knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of university students and to identify content gaps by comparing the national curriculum with international CSE standards. Materials and Methods: An analytical case-control study was conducted among 585 students (freshmen, n=289; senior students, n=296) using random sampling. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire based on UNESCO CSE standards and the national curriculum. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0, employing X2 and t-tests for significance (p<0.05). Content analysis was executed using a triangulation matrix. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed between the study groups in terms of age (p<0.001), marital status (p<0.001), and living environment (p<0.001), while groups were homogeneous regarding gender (p=0.183) and socio-economic status. Senior students demonstrated significantly higher levels of SRH knowledge, attitudes, and practices across all variables compared to freshmen (p<0.001). However, a profound knowledge-practice gap persists; for instance, while 70% of freshmen were aware of STI transmission routes, regular condom use was reported at only 45%. Content analysis revealed that while the national curriculum covers biological aspects well, key CSE concepts such as “Consent,” “Psychology of Relationships,” and “Digital Safety” are notably absent. Furthermore, a curriculum based on negative attitudes and “prohibitions” contributes to fear among youth regarding seeking medical assistance. Conclusion The significant knowledge-practice gap (p<0.001) among students highlights the urgent need to revise the national curriculum in alignment with international CSE standards. To mitigate risky behaviors, it is recommended to transition from information-based teaching to a competency-based “Integrated Learning Model” supported by school-hospital-family partnerships.

Background: The capital city of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar is not only one of the coldest capitals in the world but has also become one of the most polluted cities in recent years due to the prolonged effects of severe cold. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the most harmful air pollutant to human health is PM2.5. These fine particulate matters can penetrate the human body through the respiratory tract, causing various changes in the body and the oral cavity. Aim: Relationship between dental caries, gingivitis and periodontal status and PM2.5 air pollutant levels among 12 years old children in different areas of Ulaanbaatar. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of 190 children aged 12 years old, who were selected from high and low level areas with air pollutant PM2.5 in Ulaanbaatar city, Mongolia. We obtained informed consent No.24-25/10-1 of the Ethical Committee, MNUMS. The oral examination of every child was done according to WHO recommendation (2013). We determined the prevalence of dental caries and mean DMFT score, and the prevalence of gingivitis, and CAL score. Statistical analysis was done by the SPSS 29 software. Results: The prevalence and mean DMF/t score of dental caries were 96% аnd 5.37±2.75 among children living in the high level area of the PM2.5 air pollutant; and 91% and 5.39±3.95 in the low level area, respectively (p<0.01). The prevalence of gingivitis was 23.2% among all children; 25.2% among children living in the high level area of the PM2.5 air pollutant and 20.5% in the low level area. The CAL score was 1.89±0.89 mm in the high polluted area and 1.94±0.77 mm in the low polluted area (p<0.001). Conclusion The prevalence of dental caries and gingivitis and the mean DMFT and CAL score among children living in air polluted areas were higher than low polluted areas.

Background: Saliva as a non-invasive biological sample can be a game-changer in early disease detection and health risk assessment. Objective: To examine the association between participants' dietary patterns and the activity of salivary amylase, along with serum amylase levels in humans. Materials and methods: This study was conducted at the research laboratory of the Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedicine, MNUMS. A total of 30 students aged 19–22 years participated in the study. Saliva samples were collected three times at one-week intervals, and one blood sample was collected from each participant, alongside a dietary questionnaire. The activity of the amylase enzyme in both saliva and serum samples was determined using the iodine-starch method. Results: When evaluating the amylase enzyme activity based on participants' carbohydrate intake, the result was p > 0.05, indicating no statistically significant difference. Similarly, statistical analysis of the use of mouthwash and vitamin supplements also showed p > 0.05, which means these variables had no statistically significant effect on amylase activity. The correlation between salivary and serum amylase activity was found to be r = 0.365, indicating a weak positive correlation, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion The intake of carbohydrates, vitamins, and mouthwash does not significantly affect the activity level of the salivary amylase enzyme, according to research findings. However, external factors such as stress and air pollution have been shown to exert a measurable influence on its activity. A comparative analysis of enzyme levels in saliva and blood using amylase as a representative marker revealed similar activity levels in both fluids. This suggests that saliva may serve as a viable non invasive sample for detecting various biomarkers and diagnosing diseases. The results underscore the potential of salivary components, particularly amylase, as valuable indicators in diagnostic applications.

Background: Due to Mongolia’s harsh climate and seasonal limitations in fresh food supply, fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants are often consumed in preserved forms. However, the preservation methods and storage conditions may significantly alter their antioxidant activity, which is crucial for mitigating oxidative stress and preventing chronic diseases. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity of 19 commonly consumed vegetables, berries, and dried medicinal plants under different storage conditions including fresh, cold storage (cellar), and frozen (-20°C). Methods: Samples were extracted in 80% methanol and tested using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Absorbance was measured at 517 nm using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. IC⁻⁻ values were calculated to compare antioxidant potency. Statistical differences were assessed using paired and unpaired t-tests with SPSS v27 (p<0.05) Results: Cold storage significantly reduced antioxidant activity in root vegetables, with IC⁻⁻ values increasing by 2.4 to 13.5 times (p<0.01), indicating diminished radical scavenging potencial. In contrast, frozen samples showed minimal change (p>0.05). Dried medicinal plants such as Rosa canina and Thymus serpyllum maintained strong activity, with IC⁻⁻<50 μg/mL. Conclusion Cellar storage leads to a notable decline in antioxidant capacity of common vegetables, while freezing is a more effective method for preservation. Dried medicinal herbs remain potent sources of antioxidants and may be recommended for year-round use in Mongolian diets.

Background: The synthesis of multifunctional nanoparticles by integrating the bioactive properties of the ethanol extract of Urtica dioica L. a medicinal plant widely distributed in Mongolia, with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NP) serves as the foundation of the present study. The aim is to produce nanoparticles with synergistic antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. Objective: To synthesise dual-action nanoparticles (NPs) by integrating ZnO with the extract of Urtica dioica L. and to characterise their properties. Materials and Methods: The Control group, as ZnO-NPs, and the study group, as medicinal plant ethanol extraction loaded nanoparticles (UD-ZnO-NPs), were synthesised using green synthesis techniques. The morphology and particle size were characterised by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), chemical bonding was analysed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and crystalline structure was examined by X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Hemolytic activity assays were conducted to assess cytotoxicity. Results: The Control and study group’s morphology and size distribution were uniform and spherical. The average particle size of the study group (UD-ZnO NPs) was 63 nm, while the control group (ZnO-NPs) was 77 nm. FTIR analysis showed that the basic chemical bonds in both types of nanoparticles were similar; however, additional peaks corresponding to the bioactive compounds from the Urtica dioica extract were detected in the UD ZnO-NPs. XRD analysis revealed that both types of ZnO-NPs investigated the same crystalline structure, consistent with the standard reference data (JCPDS No. 36 1451). Hemolysis assays showed that at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 mg/ mL, the hemolytic activity was below 5%, indicating low cytotoxicity. Conclusion ZnO-NPs with and without Urtica dioica extract were successfully synthesized via a green method, yielding spherical, uniformly dispersed particles ranging from 63 to 77 nm in size. While the structural and crystalline characteristics of the NPs remained consistent, the presence of bioactive compounds was confirmed in the UD-ZnO-NPs. Hemolytic assays indicated dose-dependent cytotoxicity, highlighting the importance of concentration in biomedical applications.

Background: Identifying reliable biomarkers for early detection, risk stratification, and prognosis of CVD in the context of CKD is, therefore, of critical importance. Cystatin C has emerged as a potential biomarker capable of reflecting both cardiac injury and renal impairment, particularly in patients with arterial hypertension. This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum cystatin C levels, left ventricular hypertrophy, and chronic kidney disease in individuals with hypertension. Objective: To assess serum cystatin C concentrations in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease secondary to arterial hypertension. Materials and Methods: A case-control analytical study was conducted, enrolling 44 patients aged 45 years or older with both left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease due to arterial hypertension alongside a control group of apparently healthy individuals. Serum cystatin C levels were measured using immunoturbidimetric assay. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Group comparisons were made using independent-sample t-tests, while multivariate regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were employed to explore associations and the predictive value of cystatin C. Results: The mean serum cystatin C concentration in the case group was 1.6±0.1 mg/L, significantly higher than in the control group (0.88±0.03 mg/L, p<0.05). Similarly, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was markedly reduced in the case group (44.88±6.8 mL/min/1.73 m²) compared to the controls (92.88±3.4 mL/ min/1.73 m², p<0.05). In the case group, a statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between serum cystatin C levels and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), with a regression coefficient of β=−0.028 (p<0.006). Conclusion The elevated serum cystatin C levels (1.6±0.1 mg/L) and decreased eGFR (38.99±12.7 mL/min/1.73 m²) observed in the case group suggest that cystatin C may serve as a potential biomarker for the early diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy due to arterial hypertension and chronic kidney disease, as well as for predicting related complications.

Background: Regularly participate international High-level in sports athletes national and competitions and engage in intense training, developing endurance and resilience. Measuring blood lactate levels is crucial for improving an athlete’s performance, assessing sports performance, and enhancing the effectiveness of future training. Aim: To study the relationship between lactate levels in the blood plasma and lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity in Mongolian National Team athletes. Materials and Methods: The study involved 51 athletes from the Mongolian National Team. Anaerobic capacity was assessed using a Monark 894E Ergomedic Peak Bike, designed to apply exercise load. Blood serum lactate level and lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity were determined using a Biobase BK-280 fully automated biochemical analyzer. Heart rate, peripheral blood oxygen levels, and oxygen saturation were measured using a pulse oximeter. Results: The average age of the participants was 24.04 ± 4.15 years, with an average height of 168 ± 8.78 cm and an average weight of 71.01 ± 7.69 kg. The average BMI was 24.82 ± 4.12 kg/m². Pre exercise lactate levels averaged 3.84 ± 0.75 mmol/L, while post-exercise lactate levels averaged 9.67±3.52 mmol/L. The average heart rate before exercise was 66.04±8.9 bpm, while post-exercise heart rate was 123.6±16.06 bpm. The average VO₂ max was 95.18±2.48. Conclusion The lactate levels before and after exercise among the athletes participating in the study showed significant differences in the age groups 20-29 (p<0.0001). When comparing lactate levels before and after exercise by sport, statistically significant increases were observed in freestyle wrestling and judo athletes (p<0.0001)